DEMA reminds public to prepare now for Hurricane Sandy

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency officials are reminding the public that advanced preparation is important as Hurricane Sandy makes its way northward toward the Delaware area.

Staff Reports

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency officials are reminding the public that advanced preparation is important as Hurricane Sandy makes its way northward toward the Delaware area.

Here are some helpful tips:

Make sure flashlights (one per person), extra batteries and bulbs and battery operated lanterns. During periods of extended power outages, solar-powered landscape lights can be brought indoors at night to provide light, then placed back outside in daylight to re-charge.If the home has cordless phones, remember, they will not work if the electricity is off, so you should have a standby telephone – either a cell phone or a telephone with a cord that can be plugged in. A cell phone car charger can be used if power to the home is out for an extended period of time.Also, a portable radio and extra batteries are extremely important. A battery operated NOAA weather radio is also recommended.Include a first aid kit in your emergency supplies. The kit should at least contain bandages, aspirin or other pain relievers, gauze pads, first aid ointment, elastic bandage and tweezers.Have plenty of infant supplies on hand, including food, canned milk or formula, disposable diapers and other necessities.Stock up on food that does not require refrigeration or cooking, such as canned meats, vegetables, fruits, juices, dry cereals and powdered milk. Store enough supplies to last for at least three days. This means you should also have a manual can opener.Have food and water for pets and records of shots and medication.Make sure to have a supply of water, for both drinking and for sanitation purposes. Store water in plastic jugs or covered containers. Have one gallon per day per person of drinking water for those in your household. A pre-filled bathtub can provide water to refill toilet tanks.Check your prescription medications. If supplies are low, get refills before the storm arrives.For more information, visit www.dema.delaware.gov.